Acrophobia

Acrophobia is an extreme and sometimes irrational fear of heights. One of a specific group of phobias classified by space and motion discomfort, this fear has many root causes and can be severe in its intensity. Acrophobia is often attributed to either conditioning or a previous traumatic experience, though other researchers suggest that the fear is actually evolutionary, stemming from a time when a fall could be a life threatening event. Interestingly, several studies suggest that this fear is not confined to humans, with many animals displaying a marked dislike of heights. Whatever the cause, the online therapy for acrophobia here at GoMentor.com may be able to help.

Symptoms of Acrophobia

While acrophobia is sometimes described as vertigo, this is an incorrect description. However, vertigo is a common symptom of acrophobia when viewing the ground from a height of any kind. A marked avoidance of any kind of height is also an obvious symptom. However, there are more specific and less known symptoms that can include the fear of getting a chair, a ladder, or any scenario where one’s feet are not touching the ground. In some cases, this even stretches to a fear of water due to the same problem – while swimming in water that is deeper than a person is tall, their feet are disconnected from the ground. When confronted with these scenarios, an acrophobic can become extremely disoriented and even experience panic attacks.

An intense dislike of heights

Inability to face ladders

Inability to stand on chairs

Panic when confronted with heights

Depending on the severity of the acrophobic’s reaction to their specific triggers, acrophobia can be a condition that significantly impedes a person's life. While a fear of heights may seem like a fairly harmless and even logical fear, the level of of the fear in many is often disproportionate to any harm they might potentially be in. When placed at a height that they find uncomfortable, they are more likely to enter into a state of panic and agitation which, ironically, can make it more difficult for them to get down safely. The limitations on a person's daily life when dealing with severe acrophobia can actually be fairly extensive, and only increase as the world continues to grow to new heights.

Treatment for Acrophobia

There are plenty of treatment options for severe acrophobia, so sufferers can do their research and find the best fit. While traditional therapy may be the route for you, don’t discount the possibility of finding help right here at GoMentor.com. With online therapy through GoMentor 24/7 from trained counsellors and therapists to offer guidance and help, acrophobia can become less of an overwhelming obstacle and a more manageable hurdle that you can overcome.